Sandi Meier

Sandi was a loving wife, mother and memaw (grandma) to her 13 grand kids. Her battle with stage IV glioblastoma was short, but fought with the strength and determination of an army. On January 7, 2016 after a week in the hospital Sandi underwent surgery on a tumor that had tripled in size in just 3 1/2 weeks. Scared beyond measure our family prayed and waited for the surgeon to come speak with us after her procedure. We prayed for the best and we’re hit with the worst news imaginable; Cancer. Not just any cancer, but the worst of the worst and very aggressive. Mom was diagnosed with stage IV Glioblastoma that night. Her prognosis: 12- 14 months with chemo and radiation and 3-4 months without. Faced with enormous odds and heavy hearts mom, along with her family, opted to FIGHT! After allowing her brain to heal from the surgery she went right into physical therapy and began her chemo and radiation in early February. The chem and daily radiation took its toll on Mom. She became progressively weaker and after just 3 short weeks the chem had to be stopped. It didn’t take long before we recognized that her cancer was consuming her. On March 28, 2016, just a few short months after being diagnosed, mom passed away surrounded by her family. Her last moments here on earth were spent in the company of her boisterous family. Mom was a huge fan of the theater. In her last few hours I like to think her family gave her the best drama, comedy musical production she’d ever seen or heard. We sang songs, told stories, prayed and laughed in her company. Mom was a fun loving, determined lady. She showed her daughters what it means to work hard and excel in life. She taught us to believe in ourselves and pursue our dreams. Above all though, she reminded us that we all deserve happiness in whatever form that looks like. She taught us to love – without reservations and wholeheartedly. During her memorial someone pointed out that mom was the best example of a selfish person . . . she was selfish in the most loving and giving way. She always wanted to be a part of or be with her family. We should all be this kind of selfish. Mom was a giver. Her life-long work for various non-profits, and in disaster recovery, is indicative of how she lived her life. Giving to others, helping them be their best selves and always lending a hand. Oh how she left her mark on this world. While forever in our hearts, there’s no one close to her that doesn’t long for the chance to have just one more day with her.